BY DAVID ECK
Enquirer Contributor
BLANCHESTER -- Acting Police Chief Robert Gable, working under a month-to-month contract, heard mixed messages from residents at a packed council meeting Thursday.
Most of the residents supported the chief, and petitions presented to council to keep him had more than 110 signatures. But some residents spoke against him, saying they want more communication.
He has headed the department since October 1997, after Chief Richard Payton was charged with obstruction of justice in the disappearance of Carrie Culberson two years ago.
But some on council are not happy with their acting chief. In a vote to terminate Chief Gable's contract in May, council deadlocked 3-3, and Mayor Harry Brumbaugh voted to keep him.
Carol Elaine, a resident who said she represented residents and business owners, said Thursday the chief and the police are doing a fine job.
She pointed out that the department now has a bike patrol and foot patrol.
"I ask you to take a closer look at all the good the police department has done in the short time Chief Gable and the . . . officers have been here," she said. "The officers, we feel, actually care about what happens in this town and pay attention. We have never had this before."
But resident Tom Koenig questioned the chief's handling of an incident at Mr. Koenig's home. He filed a police report in July after finding two bullet holes in his garage. He told council the chief investigated but did not report his findings.
The chief responded that the investigation is continuing. Chief Gable, a Lebanon resident, is paid $3,500 a month.
Councilman Tom White said the department is spending too much money, and he is concerned about the chief's management. "I'm not satisfied with Chief Gable's performance," he said.
Council took no action Thursday. The month-to-month contract is automatically renewed unless someone proposes to terminate it.
Chief Gable said he would like a stable situation.
"I just think we're to the point now where you either give me a lengthy contract or you make the position permanent," he said. "I don't know how any person can function under a 30-day contract."
